Rural Women's Network Special Report May 1992 to June 1996

Special Report May 1992 - June 1996 Achievements and future directions Acknowledgements

any heartfelt thanks are due to all those with whom the RWN Mhas worked over the last four years: ♦ individual women throughout NSW and beyond who form a strong vital network,

♦ the State Advisory Committee members who do so much in their networks and local areas,

♦ NSW Agriculture Director General, staff around the state, and particularly in the Office of Rural Communities – Jim Booth and Anne Muir, for their assistance, support and guidance,

♦ those from many agencies and communities in partnership projects,

♦ and within the RWN, the excellent dedicated staff who have worked on behalf of rural women – Sonia Muir (Assistant Coordinator), and as the Support or Project Officer at various times – Susan Camp- bell, Janet Van Dorst, Alison Messner and Pam Cuelho.

Margaret Carroll, RWN Coordinator The Special Report First published June 1996 ISBN 0 7310 5728 7 ♦ Written by Rural Women’s Network staff, Margaret Carroll and Sonia Muir, and State Advisory Committee members

♦ Desk Top Published by Sonia Muir

♦ Photographs from RWN staff, The Land newspaper and Western Magazine. Cover photographs by Robert Bruce.

♦ Printed on Australian made recycled paper by Agency Printing (Aust) Pty. Ltd.

♦ Funded by NSW Agriculture

Further information & copies of the Report: Rural Women’s Network NSW Agriculture Locked Bag 21 Orange NSW 2800 Phone (063) 913 620 Fax (063) 913 650 Email:[email protected]

Page 2 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Table of Contents Foreword...... 4-5 Overview ...... 6-9

Consulting on Priority Issues ...... 10-11 ♦ Rural Women's Days ...... 10 ♦ Rural Women's Satellite Project ...... 10-11

Action on Issues ...... 12-19 ♦ Challenge of Change Project ...... 17 ♦ Country Care Link ...... 17 ♦ Country Web newsletter ...... 14 ♦ Information Provision, Country Guide ...... 14 ♦ Leadership Projects:...... 19

♦ Business and Leadership

♦ Stepping Stones ♦ Let's Talk video...... 15 ♦ Luncheon on the Plains Arts Project...... 15 ♦ Stronger Communities Project ...... 16 ♦ Women in Agriculture, Field Days ...... 18 ♦ Women of the Land Gatherings...... 13 Acronyms

ACE Adult & Community Education Input to Policy ...... 20-21 AWiA Australian Women in Agriculture ♦ State BAVRA Bathurst Area Volunteer ♦ National Resource Agency CSU Charles Sturt University ♦ International CWA Country Women's Association DPIE Department of Primary Industries & Energy Milestones for Rural Women of NSW 1992-1996 22-23 DSS Department of Social Security FAAW Foundation of Agricultural Women LOP Luncheon on the Plains State Advisory Committee Reports...... 24-34 (arts project) NCOSS NSW Council of Social Service NGO Non government organisation Future Directions...... 35 NZ New Zealand OAM Medal of the Order of Australia RAA Rural Assistance Authority RWN Program Structure ...... 36 RAS Rural Assistance Scheme RAP Rural Access Program RHSET Rural Health, Support, Education & Training Program RLPB Rural Lands Protection Board RWN Rural Women's Network RWSP Rural Women's Satellite Project SAC State Advisory Committee (RWN) SWArts South West Arts TAFE Technical and Further Education WAC Women's Advisory Council WCC Women's Consultative Committee WHO World Health Organisation WOW Work Opportunities for Women

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 3 Foreword

n 1992, NSW Agriculture established the Rural Women’s Network program within the Department to recognise the needs and Icontribution of rural women to agriculture, their families and their communities. In setting up this program, the NSW Government responded positively to important issues raised by over 650 rural women from throughout NSW at the Parkes Rural Women’s Conference in 1991.

The RWN has operated mainly through its three staff members and State Advisory Committee (SAC) drawn from major rural networks in NSW. As Director General, I jointly chair the SAC with a community representative – Audrey Hardman OAM from the NSW Women’s Consultative Committee in 1992-94 and Fran Rowe, Rural Financial Counsellor from Tottenham in 1994-96.

Over the four years of its operation, the RWN has worked with rural women, with NSW Agriculture staff and many other agencies to produce some significant outcomes. It has developed an extensive communication network with rural women and service providers in NSW and interstate through The Country Web newsletter. The NSW Women of the Land Gatherings are now an annual event organised by community based groups of women in different regions.

The priority issues of rural women were identified in an innovative way through the Rural Women’s Satellite project organised jointly between NSW Agriculture and NSW TAFE, NSW Health and the NSW Board of Adult and Community Education. This consultation has been the catalyst for many projects to address some of these priority needs such as leadership programs for rural women, educational programs, rural women’s information days, and community cultural development.

The RWN plays an important role in information provision for rural people – men and women, through its response to hundreds of requests monthly and in compiling data from across government to produce and distribute the 1995-96 Country Guide, a directory of government services in NSW.

NSW Agriculture, through the RWN program has formed new partnerships, for example with St Vincent’s Outreach in the Country Care Link 1800 service, with NSW Health in the Orana and Far West in the Building Stronger Communities project, with Central West Adult and Community Education in Stepping Stones leadership program, with State and Regional Development Department and Central West Community College in the Business Skills and Mentoring project.

In addition, the RWN has accessed and introduced NSW Agriculture to

Page 4 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Foreword new funding sources beyond the traditional avenues for agricultural projects. These have provided the resources for many of the RWN partnership projects.

The RWN has contributed to raising the profile of rural women in Aus- tralia through important events such as the feature Women in Agriculture at the 1995 Australian National Field Days, and its involvement in national planning of the 1994 inaugural International Women in Agriculture Conference and the first National Rural Women’s Forum.

The RWN is now part of the newly established Office of Rural Communi- ties in NSW Agriculture. The future directions of the RWN in focusing on women in decision making, women as agents of change, and with other NSW Agriculture programs on women as clients of the department – will be integral parts of this initiative.

I commend to readers this Special Report about the Rural Women’s Net- work over its first four years 1992 to 1996 – as a record of the ways in which the program has improved the opportunities for rural women and rural families in NSW.

KP Sheridan Director General NSW Agriculture 11 June 1996

Rural Women's Network Mission: To enhance the opportunities for rural women & rural families in New South Wales by promoting the development & facilitation of efficient & effective programs & communication networks.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 5 Overview 1992 - 1996

he concept for the Rural Women’s Network (RWN) program in NSW came from the 1991 grassroots Rural Women’s Conference in Parkes, attracting 650 women T& organised by the NSW Women’s Advisory Council (WAC). The driving forces were keen rural women such as Audrey Hardman (Country Women’s Association, CWA & WAC), Vivienne Sinderberry (NSW Farmers’ Association) & Cathy McGowan from Victoria.

This conference “identified the need for rural women to be better informed, to share ideas & concerns, to have access to information on services/resources available, & to be able to speak in a united voice about their needs” (RWN Proposal to Premier, Oct 1991).

The then Premier, approved the proposal in December 1991 & Coordinator, Margaret Carroll was appointed in May 1992 to work from the newly relocated NSW Agriculture head office in Orange. The NSW Agriculture Minister launched the RWN program as “recognition of the strength of women as a key factor in the survival of rural families” & said that “the Network will be an ongoing program targeted to rural women in an effort to bridge isolation & the communication gap between rural families & the Govern- ment.” (Ministerial Press Release, December 1991).

The original intention of the RWN was seen in information provision, particularly in the areas of agriculture, education & finance. From listening to rural women’s concerns over kitchen tables, in halls, at crossroads, via satellite links – other important & un-met needs also emerged.

The focus of RWN work is people, especially rural women in town & country areas of NSW, & those who provide them with services, assistance, information or inspiration. In the first RWN Annual Report, the Coordinator outlined the philosophy the RWN adopted in establishing a new statewide program: ♦ 'Going where the smiles are'

♦ Working with those who need assistance or are catalysts within their own group or community

♦ Listening to what are different issues & concerns in different areas, & taking account of what those women want to do as the basis for strategies & action

♦ Not 're-inventing the wheel' because there are many good programs, ideas & resources already existing that can be adapted & moved to other areas.

Accessing a rural client group that is often isolated, lacking finance for travel & other communications like phone calls, & unaccustomed to working with government has been the most important challenge initially. Hence, RWN work has emphasised travelling to our clients, use of radio & other communication avenues, trialling a 24 hour phone service & networking.” (RWN Annual Report 1, June 1993)

“The key approaches that work well for the RWN are: 1. being based within NSW Agriculture with its support, linkages, resources & expertise

2. a community based advisory structure with nine State Advisory Committee members from different networks & regions

3. working jointly with other agencies & groups to meet rural women’s needs, such as the St Vincent’s Sisters of Charity, NSW TAFE, NSW Health, landcare, Arts Councils & therefore accessing a broader range of ideas, experience & resources

4. accessing funding from a variety of sources for various projects & therefore developing valuable links & resources externally ($423,500 accessed)

5. focusing on information & communications through regular use of the media, The Country Web newsletter, RWN Information Resource Centre & modern technology such as the use of satellite link-ups with rural women

6. developing a credible, accessible, non-bureaucratic & pro-active image.” (RWN Annual Report 2, July 1994)

Page 6 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Overview 1992 - 1996 RWN Focus Issues & Action To maintain relevance & operate most efficiently the RWN program has concentrated on dealing with issues. Issues affect women across the board, often regardless of their geographic location, particular group, age, socio-economic status or ethnicity. Issues change & evolve. To keep an ear to the ground on what are current & important issues, the RWN uses consultations & an extensive communication network, including its State Advisory Committee.

The RWN has consulted with women informally, through over 220 community workshops, conferences, presentations & in a systematic way through the statewide Ru- ral Women’s Satellite Project (RWSP) which focused on the roles of women in agriculture, post-compulsory education & women’s health. From these arose a wide range of community & agency actions to deal with priority issues (see p 10-11).

Over the period 1992-95 during times of prolonged drought & rural recession – the themes of isolation, lack of communications & information, need for support, counselling & stress management have been the most significant forces shaping RWN strategies. Emerging in 1995-96 are other more positive themes of recognising the roles of women in agriculture, increasing women’s involvement in decision making, the management of change in a rapidly changing world & accessing learning on sustaining the family farm & rural communities. Isolation and Breakdown in Support Networks These were the initial major themes the RWN encountered. Women spoke about loneli- ness, social & geographic isolation from friends, family & services, diminishing communications through both lack of personal skills & cost of travel & phones, family & financial stresses, & breakdown in support networks.

The first significant RWN partnerships emerged around meeting some of these needs: ♦ Country Care Link 1800 line initiated by St Vincent’s Outreach in Sydney with western women provides confidential professional counselling, information & referrals for the cost of a local call & has expanded to cover all rural NSW (see p 17).

♦ Building Stronger Communities pilot project with NSW Health in the most se- verely drought affected region – 43% of the state in the Orana/Far West – brings people together & strengthens support networks, building communication skills & developing good community information bases (see p 16).

♦ RWN trialled two info-action programs over four week periods with 2CR ABC Radio (Central West – 1/3 NSW) & commercial radio 2WEB Bourke (50,000 listeners) on managing stress of finances, marriage & children. Written material was available on request & 1800 phone access to Country Care Link.

♦ Support for women’s self help initiatives has been a continuing strength in accessing project funding, developing skills & programs, & empowerment of women eg Bathurst (BAVRA) volunteer training Project, Rural Women's Mentor program, Chal- lenge of Change. Lack of Communication and Information ♦ The first Women of the Land Gathering in Orange convened with Farmsafe Cen- tral West, grew from needs to network, share experiences, inspiration & information, communicate & learn new skills. Gatherings are now an annual event organised by groups of women in different regions (see p 13).

♦ The Country Web newsletter produced by RWN Assistant Coordinator, Sonia Muir has developed as RWN’s major communication avenue linking rural women with each other & service providers, with 23,000 now printed three times a year (see p 14).

♦ Constant needs for provision of accessible, user friendly information is the daily work of RWN staff through responding to hundreds of requests per month, distribution of information through field days, production & dissemination of the Country Guide directory of government services for country people in NSW, & development of a comprehensive Information Resource Centre (see p 14).

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 7 Overview 1992 - 1996

♦ Working with the media has been an effective strategy in improving communications & information on rural women’s & community issues to a wider audience through 60-80 interviews per year. Drought Support Drought has been a recurring theme – from 73% of NSW drought declared in 1992 to an unprecedented 98% in January 1995. Prolonged drought saps finances, strength & even- tually hope. The challenge is how to survive, manage risk & recover, how to maintain hope & support ourselves & each other, our farms & our rural communities.

In 1994-95, RWN produced a Special Drought Country Web distributed to 35,000; & the State Advisory Committee proposed various initiatives: ♦ the Drought Support Worker scheme in NSW to provide emotional support, emergency funds & information to farm families. This scheme has operated across the state through NSW Agriculture

♦ extension of Country Care Link to all rural NSW & provision of free legal advice. St Vincent’s Outreach initiated accommodation & transport assistance for rural people coming to Sydney, & Telepal linking outback & inner city schools. The impact of such care & practical support has been invaluable in building bridges between country & city

♦ production of a video “Let’s Talk” by RWN with Tocal College & Family Life, Dubbo to improve family communications in the face of cumulative stresses on family farms, self esteem & relationships (see p 15). Women's & Family Health ♦ The attraction for the first Rural Women’s Days at Cobar, Bourke & Narrabri in 1992-93 was improving women’s health. Over 900 women came from vast areas around these centres to learn about menopause, osteoporosis, managing stress, communicating in families & with partners, backstrains & pains, farm safety. Rural Wom- en’s Days since have often followed these themes because they have universal importance.

♦ The Rural Women’s Satellite Project involved consultation with NSW Health, identified important issues in funding & provision of services, better access to mental health care, women’s health & preventative health care, & the need to attract health professionals to rural areas.

♦ Dealing with grief through losses of all kinds was a largely un-met rural health need from RWN consultations, leading to Fran Spora’s Challenge of Change project which has benefited many through her booklet, workshops & is now funded to train others across NSW (see p 17). Learning Opportunities The RWN initiated the Rural Women’s Satellite Project originally with NSW TAFE & Adult & Community Education because women expressed concerns about lack of ongoing programs meeting their learning needs. The main issues identified were for better coordination of education providers, greater flexibility & relevance in course content, timing & delivery, improved information on learning opportunities, participation of women in educational decision making, recognition of prior learning & experience, increased opportunities for Aboriginal women, & reducing the access barriers such as cost & childcare provision. Various programs arose: ♦ Isolated women at Bonalbo in the North Coast accessed a special Work Oppor- tunities for Women (WOW) project organised by NSW Agriculture, NSW TAFE & Adult & Community Education

♦ Isolated women in the far South West accessed Luncheon on the Plains, an Aus- tralia Council funded cultural development project run by RWN & South West Arts (see p 15).

Page 8 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Overview 1992 - 1996

♦ NSW TAFE Western Institute initiated the Farm & Life Skills pilot program to tailor learning to rural women’s needs. Roles of Women in Agriculture Recognition of the contribution of women to agriculture & rural life, agricultural/environmental sustainability, involvement in decision making, & opportunities to develop their potential further were significant themes in the RWSP, the first International Women in Agriculture Conference in 1994 in Melbourne, & the first National Rural Women’s Forum in Canberra in 1995.

♦ The RWN coordinated & planned the landmark feature exhibit – Women in Agri- culture for the 1995 Australian National Field Days in Orange, & was also involved with the Women in Agriculture Feature at the 1996 Tocal College Small Farm Field Days. Both events highlighted women’s contributions to agriculture to many thousands (see p 18). Women in Decisionmaking This is a national priority for rural women identified through various forums. Through RWN partnership with Central West Adult & Community Education, two leadership programs have developed in the NSW central west region in response to the voice of RWSP participants – Business, Mentoring & Leadership Skills & “Stepping Stones” for young rural women (see p 19). They are giving women new skills, sharing experiences, building strong networks & providing valuable leads, resources & impetus to other programs & areas. Women as Agents of Change In times of rapid change in rural communities, on farms & in people’s lives - women are voicing needs for new skills to deal effectively with change. These will shape RWN work over the next two years – in communication & information technology, in accessing women from different ethnic backgrounds, in working with youth & older women. Women as Clients of NSW Agriculture NSW Agriculture has provided ongoing support to the RWN program. Opportunities are continuing to develop for the Department to play a leading role in meeting the needs of women in agriculture through its mainstream programs – Farming for the Future, in industries such as dairying & pigs, the education courses & colleges, & the newly established Office of Rural Communities. The Rural Women's Input to Policy Network can provide Increasingly the RWN has contributed to policy at State & National levels through re- opportunities for com- ports, submissions, comment on government papers & input through avenues such as munications, informa- the NSW Women’s Consultative Committee (see p 20-21). tion & action on rural ♦ women’s issues. At National level, RWN has represented NSW on the inaugural International Women in Agriculture conference planning group & first National Rural Wom- en’s Forum steering committee. From these fora recommendations, the National What makes the differ- Rural Women’s Unit in the Federal Department of Primary Industries & Energy has ence is the partnerships developed in 1995, convening the first national Rural Women’s Stakeholders Meet- & working with the ing in 1996. strength, wisdom & ♦ RWN submitted recommendations to the 1995 United Nations Conference on drive of rural women Women in Beijing through the lead-up Platform for Action and co-convened a themselves. workshop on Global Networking for Rural Women.

♦ The newly established Office of Rural Communities in NSW Agriculture under which RWN will work, will provide an avenue to the NSW Government through its Rural Communities Consultative Council.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 9 Consulting on Priority Issues

he first task for the RWN was to access rural women on farms, in country towns & regional cities across NSW & listen to their concerns. Over the Tpast four years, RWN staff & SAC members have done this in 3 ways: 1. Informal Meetings Staff travelled extensively in the first two years especially, covering over 80,000 kilometres to meet with rural women on their farms, in halls & over kitchen tables to observe & listen, develop a credible image for the RWN & find out practical ways of dealing with concerns (refer map p 36). 2. Rural Womens Days & Conferences Presentations & Workshops Rural Women’s Days began in Cobar in 1992 from small beginnings of women meeting at their nearest crossroads during a dust storm & deciding to bring other women in their district together. Two hundred gathered to learn about women’s health & other identified priority issues, followed by 100 gathering at Bourke, over 600 at Narrabri, then many other areas. Local groups of women & men, see below NSW Agriculture staff in Yass & Goulburn doing a great job) organise these. The RWN role is in providing information, support & referrals to helpful contacts.

In 1992-93, RWN staff met with over 110 groups ranging from a few women to hundreds. In 1993-94, staff reached over 5,500 women through presentations & workshops providing valuable opportunities for consulting on issues, communication, information exchange & networking. This form of consulting takes a lot of time, energy, resources & travel, although it fulfils the need for personal con- tact & understanding. 3. More Structured Consultation - Rural Women's Satellite Project The Rural Women's Satellite Project (RWSP) in 1993-94 complemented & built on the informal meetings & Rural Women’s Days. The RWSP used technology to bring more than 500 rural women together to identify gaps in programs & services, & develop strategies across NSW in the areas of Women's Health, Post Compulsory Education & the Role of Women in Agriculture. Rural Women's Satellite NSW Agriculture's Rural Women's Network, NSW Health, NSW Board of Adult Project & Community Education & TAFE NSW undertook this joint landmark project to consult, develop partnerships across government & the rural community & act as a catalyst in dealing with issues.

Page 10 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Consulting on Priority Issues The Sites Role of Women in From the TAFE satellite network 26 sites were selected to reflect a range of Agriculture geographical regions which included rural towns & cities as well as coastal, in- The particular emphases land & isolated areas. At each site facilitation teams representing each agency raised by rural women gathered together a group of 15-20 local women with an interest in issues. whether on the land or not, relate largely to factors of The facilitators were asked to ensure that the group reflected cross-sections of isolation & access, level & their local community & surrounding districts by selecting women of different relevance of service, lack ages, localities & backgrounds. Women came from farms, country towns, & of information & lack of rural cities, & included those employed, unemployed & women from Aboriginal recognition for their ac- & non-English speaking backgrounds. complishments. The facilitating teams were critical to the success of the project. They developed Women's Health local ownership & commitment to the project, highlighting the knowledge & "The range of comments potential of local rural women, & following up on issues. included broader questions about funding, cross bor- With the support of the trained facilitators, rural women participated in two days der issues, greater collabo- of workshops which included interaction by satellite with a panel of decision ration between depart- makers. ments, transportation to services, attracting health The Panel workers to work in rural & The panel included key decisionmakers from the four agencies in the issue areas remote areas, & more & spokeswomen from the Office of Aboriginal Affairs & the NSW Women's localised education & Consultative Committee (now Premier's Council for Women). NSW Agricul- training for health workers" ture's Director General, Dr Kevin Sheridan & Audrey Hardman OAM (State . Advisory Committee) participated on this panel.

Post Compulsory The immediacy & flexibility of the satellite network enabled women to have a Education voice directly to decisionmakers on their issues of concern. " They [the women] are also seeking increased The Report flexibility of courses, their The needs & issues of the groups involved were collated, analysed & documented content, timing & methods in a report. Over 2,500 of these were distributed. of delivery." Direct feedback from decisionmakers together with follow-up interviews with representatives from each government department were also used to develop a Funding for the RWSP was provided through the Rural Access Program (Fed- comprehensive list of Ideas for Action. eral Dept of Primary Industries & Energy) & the NSW Women's Consultative Commit- The report has provided direction to rural women, community groups & agencies tee (NSW Department for Women). Considerable inkind support given by in taking up issues both within & across agencies. (For agency joint projects, see NSW Agriculture, NSW Health, TAFE NSW, diagram p 12). the NSW Board of Adult & Community Edu- cation.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 11 Rural Women's Network Action on Issues

Joint Projects

Community Key Projects Rural Women's Partnerships Satellite Project Rural women's self-help • Country Web projects newsletter (RWN/TAFE/ACE & Health) • Women of the Land • Special Gatherings Drought Web • rural women's days • Challenge of Change • Country Guide Business, Project • RWN Mentoring & resources & Leadership information database (RWN/ACE) Priority Issues Let's Talk Isolation • Stepping video Support Stones Australian Information • Leadership National Field Communications Days & Tocal (RWN/ACE) Field Days Drought feature ~ Health Women in Agriculture Luncheon on Learning opportunities the Plains Women in agriculture (RWN/SWArts) Women in decisionmaking Women as agents of Policy change RWN provides Stronger ongoing policy input to govern- Communities Agency Partnerships ment, key non- Country Care Link government Project • agencies & net- Farm & Life Skills for (RWN/Health) • works at state, rural women national & inter- • Info-Action Radio national levels. Programs • Monthly radio interviews

Page 12 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Action on Issues Women of the Land Gatherings Background The Women of the Land Gatherings in NSW emerged out of a similar idea in Victoria where Women on Farms Gatherings have been a part of the rural women's calendar for a number of years.

Philosophy and Purpose The Women of the Land Gatherings are not conferences or lobbying events. Gatherings provide an opportunity for rural women – from farms, rural cities " I have been enormously and towns – to come together to learn, network, and share information and impressed by the wonder- experiences. ful spirit of sharing, caring, the sense of excitement, It is an important avenue for forging links between urban and rural women the levels of energy that I and also offers an opportunity for rural women to access decisionmakers and have been able to detect service providers. It is also instrumental in raising the profile of rural women at the Gathering." through wide media coverage. Pat O'Shane, Magistrate (Keynote Speaker, 1993 Each Gathering has a theme and is held in a different location in the State. Gathering, Orange ) Over 350 women have attended each year in what has now become an annual event – 1993 – Orange, 1994 – Gunnedah, 1995 – Yanco, the 1996 Gathering will be held in Cobar, & in the Hunter Region in 1997. "What a wonderful opportunity to see the strength, Program support & encouragement Gatherings are organised by local women from the local community who women can offer each take ownership of the event for that year. The RWN plays a strong coordina- other when they come tion and support role assisting these committees throughout the planning. together." Lyn Sykes The two and a half day program includes a host of activities including – (Workshop facilitator, 1994 women's stories, displays, workshops, guest speakers, panels, farm tours, Gathering, Gunnedah) entertainment, exhibitions. Childcare is also provided.

Each year the organising committee approaches organisations for sponsor- Support for Gatherings comes from a ship to ensure top speakers are a feature and to keep the costs for participants variety of sources including both financial affordable. Many organisations and groups also provide inkind contributions. and inkind. Local business, industry and government play an integral role working with the The Gatherings have become a highlight for rural women with similar events organising committees to ensure the event being held in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania. is a success.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 13 Action on Issues The Country Web Newsletter The Country Web newsletter emerged out of a need for rural women to have a voice. The Country Web provides an effective avenue for better communications for rural women and their families throughout NSW. Through the newsletter women are able to share ideas, issues, inspira- Excerpts from Country Web tion, information, experiences and opportunities. It has also become a readers... valuable resource for government and non-government agencies to in- form the rural sector about services they offer. " I am so excited that such a paper is circulating & is The Country Web is produced by RWN Assistant Coordinator, Sonia Muir. long overdue, giving an Over its 3½ years, its print run has built up to 23,000 for the three edi- outlet for country women." tions a year, with a constantly growing direct mailing list of over 10,000 Barbara Murray, Kyogle individuals and groups. In its evaluation (1994) 98% of the respondents found it excellent or very good. "I was given The Country Web & found it interesting. I It is an issues-based newsletter and each edition has a focus. Past news- have been on the land for letters have highlighted:- ♦ Isolation,♦ Women's Health, ♦ Education, most of my 82 years where ♦ Family, ♦ Drought (Special Edition)♦ Environment, ♦ Women in I reared a family of six & Agriculture, ♦ Work & Employment, ♦ The Law now have thirteen grand- children. Information Provision Elsie Kerr, Gunnedah One of the major tasks for RWN is providing information in an accessi- "As always, it [Country ble & digestible form for rural women. This is tackled in four ways:- Web] is so readable, & the things that I appreciate 1. Dealing with requests on a variety of subjects from a wide range of about it is that there is an people. These average about 500 a month between the three staff mem- input from so many areas, bers & are often referred onto other service providers or rural women. & so many different people." 2. Janet van Dorst & Alison Messner, former Project Officers collated Quendryth Young, information from across government to produce the 1995-96 Country Alstonville Guide Directory of government services for country people. RWN has also been responsible for the Guide’s promotion & distribution in previous years. The Guide has proved popular with 15,000 copies distributed for each production run.

3. Distributing a large amount of information at field days & rural women’s gatherings on a regular basis. The Country Web and Country Guide are funded by NSW Agriculture & available 4. Operating a small Resource Centre at NSW Agriculture (Orange) of free through the Rural Women's Network relevant publications, videos & tapes on rural women’s & rural community issues.

Page 14 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Action on Issues

"The workshops allowed Luncheon on the Plains ~ arts project them to explore their own histories, exchange stories Luncheon on the Plains (LOP) arts project (1995) celebrated the lives of & express these in mean- remote rural women. The project was run jointly with the Hay based South ingful artworks." West Arts Regional Arts Development Officers (Andrew Manning & Kim Anna Glynn, Artist/tutor McMahon). The impetus for the project emerged out of the Rural Women's Satellite Project which highlighted the need for better access to services & "I attended the photogra- networking opportunities for rural & remote women in the isolated South phy workshop at Jerilderie. West of NSW. The day was thoroughly enjoyable & I learnt a lot." Due to their extreme isolation & the economic hardship encountered with Caroline Heath the ongoing effects of the drought, remote rural women from this region participant from Jerilderie had little opportunity to meet with each other. LOP brought over 140 remote rural women together, fostering community cultural support networks.

Professional artists were contracted to provide a total of 19 workshops (pho- tography, collage, drama, drawing, printmaking & patchwork) at 9 locations – including Hatfield, Balranald, Hillston, Moulamein, Hay & Jerilderie.

Regional exhibitions were held at Balranald, Moulamein, Wagga Wagga Luncheon on the Plains was funded by: & Yanco. Exhibitions provided an opportunity to network & share their experiences. The arts were used very successfully as a forum with which to explore identity, ideas, to converse with others & develop individual skills with inkind support from RWN & South West Arts. for the elevation of the participants' self worth. Let's Talk ~ communications video "The important thing to RWN proposed & coordinated the production of a video Let’s Talk on Com- remember as a farm family munication for Farm Families as part of the drought support measures for was that you had to work farm families announced on 9 August 1994. It emphasises the importance of as a team & communica- open & honest communication within farm families, especially in tough times. tion was an important part of that. During the drought The video portrays real-life situations using unrelated rural people as the play- & tough times, people tend ers. It looks at issues of self esteem, levels of communication, handling con- to put all their efforts in just flict & dealing with difficult issues through a family meeting using a facilita- keeping going & not have tor. Jenny Laffan (Tocal College) scripted & produced it with Lyn Sykes, family meetings & there is Family Life Counsellor (Dubbo), & Tom Braz (Communications Unit, NSW often a communication Agriculture) filming & editing. break-down." Trixie Hawke Over 500 copies have been sold or distributed as resources & used by people (member of the video working with farm families – NSW Agriculture staff, Drought Support Work- 'farm family') ers, Rural Financial Counsellors, RWN, other agencies & rural people themselves.

Let's Talk funded by: • NSW Agriculture • NSW Government Drought Support Package

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 15 Action on Issues Stronger Communities Project This joint RWN/NSW Health project was developed in response to the con- sistently voiced issues of stress, depression, isolation, declining community support networks & poor communication skills for people living in the Orana/ Far West region, 43% of the State.

The 3 year project (1993-96) funded from the Federal Rural Health Support, Education & Training Program is monitored by a steering committee of 12. A full-time community liaison & training worker, Fleur Herscovitch, is based Project Aim in Dubbo. In 1995 extra funding enabled a part-time worker to establish a To strengthen communities volunteer home visiting program in Nyngan & it now has continued funding. through providing community development training, Training Programs reaching over 1000 building communication Professional training included undertaking community inquiries, focus group skills & support networks research, puppetry in clinical practice & health promotion, counselling & for people & groups en- role delineation, communication skills for specialised settings & community gaged in health enhance- development skills. ment & service provision. These include family & General training included conflict resolution & other aspects of communi- community carers, teach- cation skills, community development, managing emotions, play, child de- ers, volunteer service velopment & coping with hard times. Individual volunteers have accessed providers, health & welfare training, but few volunteer groups at an organisation level. professionals. Community Support in 8 shires In the shires of Nyngan, Cobar, Gilgandra, Coonamble, Coonabarabran, Dubbo, Wellington & Coolah support has included mediation for organisations & community groups, facilitating for group planning & organising, advice/assistance with lobbying, submission writing, advertising & media re- leases, questionnaire development & program development, assistance & resource provision for adult education processes, information sources, tertiary studies entry, assignment writing, conference paper preparation & presenta- tion. Key project users have Rural - Urban Links Strengthened been health workers want- ing to do more for their Visits facilitated included students in the Health Professions, a delegation of communities through Health managers/planners from China under the auspices of the World Health improving communica- Organisation (WHO) Regional Training Centre, workshop artist Geoff Nance tions & community devel- who worked with counsellors & teachers, Aboriginal Black Hearts Produc- opment. tion team who conducted workshops. These initiatives along with other Project consultancy work have helped to narrow the urban-rural divide. Working with Aboriginal People on request Education sessions were conducted for Aboriginal health professionals, wom- Stronger Communities Project funded by en’s groups, a men’s group in Gilgandra, & a group of high school students. the federal Rural Health, Support, Education and Training Program (RHSET) Over 100 people participated in Walking Together, a program of nine sessions promoting understanding between Aboriginal & non-Aboriginal people in Dubbo. Presenters were all Aboriginal with the project worker & So- cial Justice group providing media, publicity, facilitation & other backup. Wellington, Lightning Ridge, Cobar & Dubbo people requested these programs.

Page 16 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Action on Issues

Sr Jude thought of linking Country Care Link isolated outback children with their counterparts in The Sydney-based Sisters of Charity Outreach Centre commenced a the city for support & so 008 number Country Care Link on August 3rd, 1992 providing a con- Telepal was established in fidential family support and information service for residents in the 1993 initially linking two 068 and 080 Telecom districts. Sr Jude Doyle, Mrs Pauline Noyce schools. In 1995, ten city and Carolyn Lyons with the “flying padre” Rev Rob Rutzou (Uniting schools are linked with ten Church) visited the Far West, meeting local people in their homes, in country schools & approxi- halls, at BBQs, in pubs and under gum trees. mately 150 students are involved with fortnightly In July 1994, with the advent of FARMHAND requesting Country calls. Valuable friendships Care handle hundreds of incoming calls, the service was extended to have been established, all country NSW including legal counselling and assistance, transport students exchange photo- and accommodation, hospitality at the Centre, visits to country people graphs and letters & a very in hospital and respite or a holiday for a family who needs a break. A special exchange about friendly voice for a chat is always available. school & life in general. Challenge of Change Project Country Care Link funded by: Since 1994 RWN has been working with Fran Spora, currently NSW Agri- • St Vincent's Outreach & supporters culture’s Drought Support Worker at Coonambleon the Challenge of Change • NSW Agriculture project on dealing with grief & loss in country areas. RWN consultations had • NSW Government Drought Support identified issues of unresolved & widespread grief of rural people as a result Package of the losses incurred through recession, – loss of relationships, farms, identity, community networks.

Phase 1 carried out by Fran Spora, focused on development of a booklet, "Nearly always, people Through Deep Waters & workshops using the booklet. Fran was highly ef- have the resources within fective in this project: themselves to support • & reaching over 700 men & women throughout NSW for 35 workshops each other. But they need held over a six month period affirmation. Maybe they • producing & selling over 2,000 copies of the booklet through CB Alexan- need to learn a few skills to der College, Tocal (3 reprints) become more effective supporters. That leads to Phase 2 Training & setting up a statewide network – to develop long term having confidence in means of dealing with grief & loss in country communities by – themselves... a kind of 1. Preparing & producing a mix & match module training kit on dealing with empowering.” grief & loss in country communities Fran Spora Drought Support Worker 2. Planning & running 2 regional training workshops for key selected people already working in this field to enable them to offer community workshops across NSW on dealing with grief & loss. Challenge for Change funded by: • Department of Primary Industries & En- ergy's Rural Access Program • Ongoing funding for 1996-7 from Burn- side for 'trainer the trainer' workshops.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 17 Action on Issues Women in Agriculture ~ Field Days Guest Exhibit The 1995 Australian National Field Days provided an avenue for rural women to contribute to the dynamic feature exhibition Women in Agriculture. The "The feature provided tens program highlighted the vital contribution women make to Australian Agri- of thousands of Australian culture in all sectors. National Field Days visitors with detailed insight into The RWN and two members of the State Advisory Committee (SAC) Audrey the important & changing Hardman OAM and Jenny Quealy developed the program around a number roles of women involved in of themes with an emphasis on hands-on interactive displays:- agricultural industries." Learning to Manage Change – showcased educational opportunities for ru- Australian National Field ral women including farm skills, leadership, home study, TAFE & ACE. Days Committee

Taking Care of Ourselves – Health display focused on preventative health including stress management, osteoporosis, cancer detection, aromatherapy & massage. Onsite Childcare Recognising the Changing Roles – a large video wall and travelling photo- "The onsite childcare graphic exhibition highlighted women’s contribution to agriculture. proved very popular with families, enabling both Keeping up with Technology – an interactive display of information tech- partners to look at the nology including electronic faxing, email & using the internet. displays. Networking and Supporting Each Other Through Change – RWN dis- This was the first time such play and a postcard wall where women wrote about how they saw themselves a service has been on as women in agriculture. offer." Working With Mother Earth – outside demonstrations and displays fo- Margaret Corby cused on sustainability and self sufficiency. It included permaculture, herb Onsite Childcare spiral, companion planting, worm farming & no-dig gardens. Coordinator Paddock to Profit – Showed women’s ability to produce, add value and mar- ket agricultural goods. Included demonstrations by a female blade shearer, spinning, weaving, feltmaking & crafts. Funding for the Feature was provided by: Farming - Food, Fashion and Fun – Women shared their creative and practical skills through music, guest speakers, entertainment, fashion & parades.

Department for Women Another feature of the program was the very entertaining Great Debate where speakers deliberated the topic Women in Agriculture – Invisible Partners? Inkind support was also provided by individuals, businesses, industry and community groups. A Women in Agriculture theme was also featured at the 1996 Tocal field days.

Page 18 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Action on Issues Leadership Projects:

Business & Mentor project funded by: Business, Mentoring & Leadership Skills for Women Women in business lead busy lives balancing work and family life. This joint Adult and Community Education/RWN project (1995-96) was coordinated by Sue Pardy. Sue looked at identifying the training needs of women in business and how to provide access to quality learning opportunities.

For most women in business finding time for further training and learning presents a challenge. The training provided through the project reflected these women's needs. It was short, sharp, focused, provided by experienced people and was relevant to their business. Topics included business planning, marketing, conflict resolution and negotiation. 146 women participated in 14 workshops over 6 months.

The establishment of mentor circles was an intrinsic component of the program, giving the participants opportunities to network and develop relationships with other women in business.

Stepping Stones ~ Leadership Skills for Younger Rural Women The Stepping Stones project is another joint ACE/RWN project coordinated by Pam Cuelho (RWN). This twelve month pilot project (1995-96) is being run in small communities in the Central West of NSW – Greenthorpe, Totten- ham, Garema and Tullibigeal.

The project will provide women with opportunities to establish and develop Stepping Stones Project funded by networks and enhance skills through training designed to meet their needs.

Through such needs-based training rural women are more able to understand and take on decisionmaking roles within the family and community.

Department for Women Local representatives in each areas were involved in the program develop- Grant's Program ment. Times, dates, childcare needs and topics were negotiated with the women at these meetings.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 19 Input to Policy

State State RWN input through: ♦ 1992-95 Women’s Advisory Council (WAC) & Women’s ♦ Representation on WAC & Consultative Committee (WCC) WCC ♦ Regular liaison with govt & ♦ 1995 Premier’s Council for Women non-govt agencies ♦ ♦ NSW Government agencies Submissions, comment on papers eg. Social Policy, • NSW Agriculture Rural Suicide, Youth, Vocational Education & • Department for Women Training, NSW Health Drought • NSW TAFE Support • NSW Board of Adult & Community Education (ACE) ♦ Consultations on issues eg. Rural non-English speaking • NSW Health background people's issues, ACE planning, welfare for • Former Social Policy Directorate farm families ♦ ♦ SAC recommendations to NSW Council of Social Services member networks eg. Country Women's Association ♦ Community agencies strategic planning, agriculture/environmental officers (Pam Moore), Rural ♦ RWN State Advisory Committee member networks Lands Protection Board's grant for getting women on ♦ boards ($78,000 received Rural Women on Boards from NSW Women’s Department)

♦ Rural women on Boards eg. National NSW Social Justice Ref. Group (Pat Le Lievre), NSW Community Based Breast Cancer Institute Board (Judy Thompson). ♦ 1994 Foundation Australian Agriculture Women (FAAW) ♦ Conference Presentations eg. Rural Communities Look- ♦ National Conferences/workshops ing Ahead, NSW Spokeswom- en’s. ♦ 1995 first National Rural Women’s Forum – Canberra, convened by CSU Riverina produced recommendations to Federal Government on themes of: National • Recognition Community based RWN input through: • Access and Participation ♦ Represented on FAAW • Management of Change Board by NSW Agriculture’s Program Leader, Rural Com- • Education /Training and Resources munity Development, Office of Rural Communities • Agricultural & Environmental Sustainability ♦ On National Forum Steering • Social Justice Committee; outcome report produced

♦ Conference Presentations eg. National Adult & Commu- nity Education. (Rural women’s education)

Page 20 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Input to Policy National National Government RWN input through: Government ♦ Regular liaison with Rural ♦ 1995 National Rural Women’s Unit established in Department of Pri- Women’s Unit/input on Fed- eral issues eg. National Rural mary Industries & Energy to provide: Finance Summit, West 2000, • Input to federal policy assisting interstate RWNs • Facilitate national networking ♦ Participants in Stakehold- ers’ Forum & development of action on priorities ♦ 1996 first National Rural Women’s Stakeholders’ Forum – Canberra Recommends priorities: ♦ Submissions, comments on papers eg Older Women' • Women in Decision Making Health, Vocational Education • Women Managing Change & Training • Delivery of Rural Services ♦ Consultations on issues eg. Australian National Training • Developing a Positive Rural Image Authority (rural women’s education), DSS (community • Technology development), Women in Landcare

♦ Rural Women on Boards eg. SAC member Fran Rowe on Rural Assistance Scheme International Advisory Committee, Gay Rose on National Registration ♦ 1993 first NZ “Paddock to Parliament” Conference Authority Community Con- sultative Committee (com- ♦ 1994 first International Women in Agriculture Conference, Melbourne munity based) Recommendations to Federal/State Governments & Beijing Conference on: International • Education of Rural Women RWN input through • Visibility and Recognition ♦ Margaret Carroll invited to NZ to speak on NSW RWN • Decisionmaking and Participation • Networking ♦ Represented NSW on International Women in • Environmental Sustainability Agriculture Conference Planning Group. Margaret • Social Justice Carroll coordinated Women in Agriculture Action Group; ♦ co-convened Global Net- 1995 United Nations Fourth Women’s Conference – Beijing work Meeting ♦ Platform for Action with government commitments – Australia's focus: ♦ Input to UN Platform for Action. Sonia Muir co-facili- • Women – work and families tated workshop – Global RWN in Beijing • Violence against women • Aboriginal Women's Health ♦ Working with VIC RWN and the Foundation for Agricul- • Women in public life and decisionmaking tural Women to implement global rural women’s networking strategies ♦ Proposal to facilitate a Global Rural Women's Networking as a result of the International Women in Agriculture Conference and the Beijing ♦ Visits from key women in NZ, China, Japan, Philippines, Conference. USA, UK

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 21 Milestones for Rural Women

1992 he Building Stronger T Communities pilot project WN program is established in April established by RWN & NSW R within NSW Agriculture, Orange. Health in the Orana/Far Coordinator, Margaret Carroll is em- West Region with federal funding for three years. ployed to improve communications & ac- (Issues – lack of community & personal support, lack cess to information for rural women in of communication skills & high stress levels.) NSW. W O W WN State Advisory Committee is set up — linking R major rural networks & jointly chaired by NSW WN initiates joint TAFE/ACE/NSW Agriculture Agriculture's Director General Dr Kevin Sheridan & R Project for isolated women at Bonalbo on the North NSW Women's Advisory Council Member Audrey Coast – Work Opportunities for Women (WOW) Hardman OAM.

ural Women's Satellite obar & Bourke show the way with successful rural R Project, initiated by C women's days organised by local women attracting RWN, jointly planned with hundreds of participants. NSW TAFE, NSW Adult & Community Education & NSW Health, consults via sat- ountry Care Link is set up by ellite with 500 women at 28 C St Vincent's Outreach with sites across NSW identifying western women to provide counsel- important concerns in Post Compulsory Education, Wom- ling, information & referral to west- en's Health & the Role of Women in Agriculture. Proved ern NSW. a catalyst for action on issues from both community & government. 5,000 kilometres are covered 3 around NSW personally meeting 1994 & listening to rural women's concerns to identify priority issues. irst International Women in F Agriculture Conference, Farming for our Future is held in Melbourne & 1993 attracts 850 women from 40 countries. Coordinated by a national group he first RWN issues based newsletter, including the RWN. Highlights the roles TThe Country Web is produced by newly & contributions of women to agriculture appointed Assistant Coordinator, Sonia & environmental sustainability. Muir as the RWN's main communication avenue for rural women. Initial print run ountry Care Link now covers all of rural NSW offer- is 15,000. C ing free legal advice, accommodation & transport assistance, information, referral & Telepal linking outback he first NSW Women of the Land & inner city school children. T Gathering is held in July in Orange, convened by RWN & Farmsafe Central West, attracts 400 BC Rural Women of the Year Award is Surviving & Thriving women. A launched to recognise the achievements of rural women nationally. ountry Creative Arts Cooperative is established Cwith Pam Moore, RWN State Advisory Commit- tee member as a founding Director. Page 22 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 New South Wales 1992~1996

WN obtains Australia Council R funds for a creative community cultural development program. Run jointly by RWN & South West Arts, Luncheon on the Plains uses arts ideo on improving family communications is pro- workshops to network & teach new Vduced skills to women in the isolated south- by RWN & Tocal College – effective in accessing west of NSW. hundreds of rural people.

partnership between RWN & the Central West he Second Women of the Land A Regional Council of Adult & Community Education TGathering – Caring & Sharing is held in September in develops a Business, Mentoring & Leadership project. Gunnedah & convened by local women. Funding from NSW State & Regional Development.

he Third Women of the Land rolonged drought grips NSW. T Gathering – Today's Knowledge, Tomorrow's Suc- PRWN produces a special Drought cess, held at Murrumbidgee College of Agriculture, edition of the Country Web – distrib- Yanco in September & convened by Riverina women. uted to 35,000.

WN State Advisory Committee irst Women in Agriculture feature R proposes the Drought Support Fat any Australian field day is coor- Worker Scheme – to provide emo- dinated by the RWN for the National tional support, emergency funds & information to farm Field Days in Orange highlighting the families. roles & achievements of rural women.

roject Support Officer Position is established within 1996 PRWN. (Janet van Dorst ~ 1994, Alison Messner ~ 1994/5, Pam Cuelho ~ 1995/96) tepping Stones project is funded by the S Department for Women & run jointly with the Central West Community College. It provides opportunities for rural women from smaller 1995 communities to develop leadership skills & networks within their own communities. nited Nations Fourth World UConference on Women in Beijing, reviews & debates 12 critical areas of uture Women of the Land Gatherings confirmed – concern & adopts a new Platform for FSeptember 27-29 1996 ~ Cobar & October 1997 ~ Action. Non-government (NGO) Tocal in the Hunter region. Forum is held concurrently. Sonia Muir runs workshop on global networking ural Women's Memoirs Project will provide train- with Victorian Rural Women's Ring & networking opportunities for rural women Network & Foundation of Australian who are carers. Grant from the Department of Primary Agricultural Women. Industries & Energy's Rural Access Program.

ural Women's Stakeholder's Forum to be held at he first National Rural Women's Forum in Canberra R Orange to develop & coordinate a commitment to Tis coordinated by a national group including RWN action on issues from community, government , non-gov- Coordinator. Forum participants develop recommenda- ernment agencies & industry. tions to the Federal Government on rural women's issues.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 23 State Advisory Committee Reports Chair: 1994-96 Rural Counsellors' Association Representative: Fran Rowe (Tottenham) Aim: To develop communication links between the Rural Women's Net- work, NSW Financial Counsellors' Association & the Rural Assistance Authority & to promote the economic & social welfare of rural families. Highlights & Progress The NSW Rural Assistance Authority (RAA) has supplied consistent support to the Women of the Land Gatherings over the past three years. This support has included sponsorship & participation in seminars. Rural Coun- Fran Rowe sellors throughout NSW have coordinated distribution of RAA sponsorship Chair 1994-95 to the Gatherings & ensured each Gathering benefited from Counsellor at- Rural Counsellors' Association Representative tendance. 1992-1996 "I believe the RWN provides the opportu- FARMHAND Appeal – I represented rural women on the FARMHAND nity for women to support each other, their Advisory Committee. The FARMHAND Appeal, its direction & support to families and their communities and to rural families was an incredible success working with groups such as the contribute through their shared experi- Salvation Army to reach rural families, conducting media interviews to pro- enced to a more productive sustainable rural Australia." mote awareness & access arranged through Rural Counselling Services.

Funding & Launch of Your Farm, Their Future – Together manual was the culmination of three years research in the Tottenham/Maleny areas, by the University of Western Sydney (Hawkesbury). It resulted in a publication highlighting many of the important issues involved in intergenerational transfer including awareness of the importance of communication within the family. The book is available from the Lachlan Advisory Group, Rural Counsel- ling Service, Bombah, Tottenham 2873.

Rural Women’s Conference – Parkes 1991. Participants assisted in the identification of the need for rural women to have opportunities to network, share ideas, access information & have a voice in decision making. Subse- quent to this conference the Rural Women’s Network program was established within NSW Agriculture.

The Country Web newsletter. I have provided information/articles on issues relating to adjustment support through the NSW Rural Counselling Service & the NSW Rural Assistance Authority.

Australian Banking Industry Ombudsman Council. I am continuing to lobby the Council to include rural representation. The Council supports this in principle & aims to have rural representation in the future.

Pro Bono Support for Rural Families. I met with representatives from the NSW Bar Association which resulted in a commitment to support rural families by way of pro bono legal advice.

National Rural Women’s Officer. I was involved in the many discussions with Commonwealth Department of Primary Industries & Energy with re- gard to the appointment of a National Rural Women’s Officer to enhance the effectiveness of rural women’s networks in policy & program formation. A National Rural Women’s Officer was appointed in 1995.

Page 24 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 State Advisory Committee Reports

Community Gatherings/ Women’s Information Days/ Media Activities ♦ Careers for Women in Agriculture – Murrumbidgee College ♦ Royal Agricultural Society Regional Seminars (Orange, Tamworth, Dubbo, Griffith, Wagga Wagga). ♦ Drought Information Days (Tottenham, Condobolin, Forbes) ♦ Access Program Tele-Linkup, Years 11 & 12 (Tottenham, Tullamore, Tullibigeal, Yeoval) ♦ Agquip RWN Information Stand ♦ Mercy Foundation/Salvation Army – Rural Needs ♦ Condobolin Women’s Link Program ♦ Sisters of Mercy (Parkes) ♦ Talkback Radio – ABC – All Regional Centres – Topics – FARMHAND/ DSS/RAS ♦ Media Research Assistance on Rural Issues – Law of the Land & A Country Practice/ Big Picture, Business Review Weekly – Farm Divorce. ♦ Numerous print & radio interviews on rural financial & drought issues. ♦ Fodder Drop Community Organisation.

Conference Participation & Input on Rural Issues University of Western Sydney (Hawkesbury) – Passing a Viable Farm on to Future Generations. Establishing a support network for rural families. ♦ NSW Council of Social Service (NCOSS) Rural Conference, Dubbo ♦ Department of Mental Hygiene, Dubbo – Rural Health

Drought Support Initiatives for Rural Families ♦ Through RWN SAC – needs identification such as Drought Support Workers etc. ♦ Meetings with Commonwealth Officers – Drought Relief Payments ♦ Meetings with Senator Collins – Rural Family Needs.

Chair: 1992-94 NSW Women's Consultative Committee Representative: Audrey Hardman OAM (Mandurama) Aim: To enhance opportunities, promote & encourage the development of effective programs & communication networks for rural women & their families. Highlights & Progress Audrey Hardman OAM As Deputy Chair of the NSW Women's Advisory Council (WAC), re- Chair 1992-94 named in 1993 to the NSW Women’s Consultative Committee (WCC), I NSW Women's Consultative have given monthly reports of RWN at Committee meetings:- Committee Representative ♦ increasing awareness & understanding between country & city women 1992-1996 ♦ − "I am totally committed to improving serv- procured $5,000 sponsorship for 1993 Women of the Land Gathering − ices for rural and isolated people and $5,000 for the 1994 Women of the Land Gathering gaining greater recognition of the impor- − $5,000 towards the Rural Women’s Satellite Project Report tant contribution women make to the sta- bility and strength of the family units and WCC Consultations & Projects their communities, as well as the vital role ♦ Post Natal Stress & Depression consultations were held in the Far West, they fill in partnership with men to en- Far South West & Coastal Regions. Surveys were distributed with 14,000 sure the future prosperity of family farmers, rural industry and the economy of included in the Hersay newsletter. (Articles on rural women’s issues Australia." have appeared regularly in Hersay.) Rural & isolated women participated

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 25 State Advisory Committee Reports in & contributed to the Report – If Motherhood is Bliss Why do I feel so Awful, with very positive results in some areas. ♦ Women into Parliament consultations were held in the country including:- Orange, Tamworth, Albury, Ballina & Newcastle. ♦ Women’s Issues – In 1990 a major consultation was held at Bowral. ♦ A New NSW Women’s Register was launched in 1994

I have participated in a number of rural women's projects including: ♦ Women of the Land Gatherings in Orange – as a member of the Organising Committee & chaired the Sunday session; Gunnedah – chaired the Opening Session & launched the Rural Women's Satellite Project Report; Yanco – a participant.

I have acted as a referee for successfully funded rural programs including: ♦ Building Stronger Communities Project ♦ Rural Women's Video Library ♦ Homestart program in Nyngan. Further funding from Burnside will enable it to extend in the west. Homestart program is also starting in the Deniliquin area ♦ Rural Women’s Satellite Project – Statewide conference. I was also privi- leged to represent rural women on the State Panel of the Conference with Departmental Heads & launched the final report.

I represent the RWN SAC on: ♦ The Farming for the Future State Committee ♦ Country Mayor's Regional Development Committee ♦ Drought Support Workers State Steering Committee – an excellent recommendation made by the SAC of the RWN ♦ I also participated in a States Telelink which resulted in the appointment of 19 Rural Health Counsellors. ♦ A member of the Coordinating Committee for the Australian National Field Days Guest Exhibit.

I represent rural women & rural communities & farmers as: ♦ Chair of the Regional Council for Adult & Community Education in the Central West ♦ Chair of the Western Institute of TAFE Council ♦ Chaired of the Regional Management Committee for the pilot on Recognition of Experience & Prior Learning of Farmers managed by the Orange Agricultural College, Sydney University ♦ Chair of the Board for the Lachlan Region Environment Employment Program (NSW Agriculture is a major contributor) ♦ Member of the Organising Committee for the 1995 CWA State Conference in Bathurst. ♦ I attended (representing the WCC) the First International Women in Agriculture Conference in Melbourne 1994, & the first National Rural Women’s Forum held at Parliament House Canberra in June 1995. Both landmark occasions which gave recognition to the valuable contribution rural women make at all levels of our society. The next step will be the important one.

I have been a Guest Speaker at many seminars, dinners, lunches & conferences where I always distributed the Country Web newsletter & any relevant RWN material. Page 26 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 State Advisory Committee Reports

Main engagements: ♦ The Annual Spokeswomen’s State Conference, Sydney ♦ Churches caring in Christ – a 2 day seminar, Bathurst ♦ International Women’s Day Celebrations 1995, Dubbo ♦ Murrumbidgee College Women’s Careers Day, Yanco ♦ Rotary, Probus & VIEW Clubs ♦ A panellist at the NCOSS Rural Communities Conference, Dubbo 1995

The Country Web newsletter is also distributed at the meetings I attend with Western Institute of TAFE Council, Central West Regional Council of Adult Education, State Women’s Hospital Advisory Committee, 3x3 Fuel Tax State Committee.

I have attended all RWN SAC meetings & those on which I represent the RWN. I have enjoyed assisting people at Field Days at Mudgee, Orange, Henty & Agquip Gunnedah & gave a number of press & radio interview on rural & family issues.

Even though I was a prime mover & present at the birth of the RWN Pro- gram, I marvel at how much as been accomplished in 4 of the worst years in rural history. Obviously it was THE RIGHT PROGRAM introduced at THE RIGHT TIME in THE RIGHT DEPARTMENT by THE RIGHT PEO- PLE making the best possible use of our money for the benefit of rural people. Congratulations Margaret, Sonia, Susan, Janet, Alison & Pam for making VISION a permanent REALITY.

Country Women's Association Representative: Pam Moore (1992-1995) (Burren Junction) New representative Dec 1995: Margaret Smith (Wallendbeen) Aim: To strengthen communication links between the Country Wom- en's Association (CWA) & RWN. Highlights & Progress It seems hard to believe that my [Pam] three year term as a member of the Pam Moore Country Women's Association SAC is over. It has been a most interesting & challenging time, & very satis- Representative fying to see the recognition & respect that the Network has received & in 1992-1995 particular, the wide acceptance of the Country Web. “I am particularly concerned about the state of country roads and the limited edu- As the CWA representative, my commitments gave me the opportunity to cational opportunities and health services travel widely throughout the State. It was exciting to be part of the innovative available in the more remote areas of NSW." Rural Women’s Satellite Project.

The CWA has always been involved in Health & Educational issues, & to a certain extent, Agriculture & the Environment, & due to the recognition of Women in Agriculture, the CWA has decided to appoint Agricultural/ Environmental Officers to give more prominence to those topics within the Association.

I was appointed a Director of the Country Creative Arts Cooperative which

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 27 State Advisory Committee Reports was formed to provide an avenue for country people to earn off farm income during the rural recession.

The invitation to speak at the NSW AVCARE Conference on Chemicals – Communication & the Women's Perspective, gave me the opportunity to express the concerns of rural women on the transportation, safety, labelling, use & effects of farm chemicals to manufacturers & distributors. I consulted with many different women whilst preparing the address, & all suggestions for improvement were accepted favourably. I had the impression that no- body had thought to ask a women before!

Margaret Smith I travelled to Griffith to speak to the Riverina Soroptomist International Country Women's Association Conference on the drought & its affects on the rural communities. Representative 1995-1996 I was appointed to the NBN Drought Appeal Committee which distributed "Through involvement with the local $80,000 in fodder, grain, & agistment to drought stricken farmers in the North Branch, Hume Group and State level of West & Tablelands areas, & I am presently a member of the North West the CWA, I have come to recognise many of the needs of rural women, and women Drought Consultative Committee with representatives from Health & Com- in general throughout NSW. munity Services, Anglican Counselling Service, NSW Farmers & NSW Ag- riculture. We work with the North West Drought Support Worker. I trust some of this knowledge can be put to good use through my involvement with It has been a pleasure to work with such a talented Committee. I congratulate the RWN." Margaret & Sonia, & I wish the Network continued success & look forward to participating in some other way in the future.

Independent Member Representative: Cathy McGowan (1992-95) (Rural Consultant, Albury/Wodonga) New Representative, Dec 1995: Lyn Riley Mundine (Aboriginal Development Manager Western Institute of TAFE, Dubbo)

Highlights & Progress I [Cathy] came to the RWN with a passion & desire to be part of the rural women’s movement in NSW. Much water has passed under the bridge since the heady days of the first Gathering at Parkes. In this report I would like to Cathy McGowan mention three of the projects which I think have fundamentally changed the Independent Member way we see agriculture & our role as rural women. Child care for farm fami- 1992-1995 "We have an important contribution to lies, the International Women in Agriculture Conference & work with the make and the more women can partici- NSW Dairy Industry. pate in agriculture, economic and social decision making, the better decisions will Childcare be. The RWN provides a way for rural When the RWN began, the idea of sponsored childcare at a field day was and farming women to have their voices thought to be absolutely out of the question. “Impossible!” “How would it be heard - by government and by each other." organised?” “Women won’t use it.” These were some of the comments. Yet at the 1995 Australian National Field Days in Orange, many families said that the provision of quality childcare was one of the highlights.

Over the three years, not only has the RWN introduced the concept of quality

Page 28 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 State Advisory Committee Reports

childcare for major events they have also supported the project to look at how farm families could have access to quality childcare. I developed the report Country Kids – Who Cares? which was accepted by the Common- wealth Government & pilot projects are now underway in South Eastern Vic- toria.

The provision of childcare for farm families is an important recognition that women, as well as men, work on farms. It also acknowledges that in planning services for rural people, different models of service delivery may be neces- sary.

Lyn Riley-Mundine International Conference of Women in Agriculture Aboriginal Development Manager Western Institute of TAFE This conference was a land mark for Australian women. It was the first con- Independent Member ference anywhere in the world which looked at issues of concern to farming 1995-1996 & rural women. Senator Bob Collins said it was the largest gathering of its kind ever to take place in Australia. Over 850 women from 35 countries were in attendance & this conference was sponsored & supported by the RWN.

I felt an enormous sense of pride when I was in the Great Hall of Melbourne University, surrounded by women from all around the world. At one stage I looked around & caught the eyes of Margaret Carroll & Sonia Muir. We smiled at each other, sharing our knowledge that we had helped make this event a reality. The second conference is proposed for Canada in 1997 & there is talk of the third conference in China in 2000.

Social Issues in the NSW Dairy Industry This project is still in its early days. Groups have formed in Bega, Nowra, the Hunter Valley & around Lismore to look at social issues which impact on productivity in the dairy industry. These groups are made up of women who care for their industry, their families & their communities. Through the NSW RWN, these women are linked to each other & importantly, statewide resources.

Landcare NSW Decade of Landcare Coordinator Representative: Jenny Quealy (Sydney) Aim: To ensure the objectives of the RWN are widely understood through the landcare network & to ensure opportunities through landcare programs encourage the participation of rural women. Highlights & Progress Women in landcare have participated in all Rural Women’s Network initiatives including: Jenny Quealy ♦ Women of the Land Gatherings Landcare Representative ♦ 1992-1996 Rural Women’s Satellite Project ♦ "Women are managing farms and Consultations with communities around the state along with SAC meet- natural resources. The number of women ings in Landcare groups is very encouraging. ♦ The International Women in Agriculture Conference But women do need continued support to ♦ The Australian National Field Days Guest Exhibit Women in Agri- tackle land and water degradation of land culture under their care and control. Links between the Landcare and RWN networks can assist this crucial challenge." As the NSW Decade of Landcare Coordinator I have been a member of the Rural Women’s Network State Advisory Committee since its inception. Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 29 State Advisory Committee Reports

During this time there has been an ongoing exchange of information between the networks through newsletters, workshops, meetings, brochures & other communication methods.

The Landcare message has been promoted through the RWN & the profile & messages of the RWN have been communicated through:– ♦ RWN information regularly in Catchment Management News & other landcare publications. ♦ Women in landcare groups receive recognition in landcare publicity in Country Web. ♦ RWN has be invited to participate in landcare display, workshops eg. The National Field Days, Orange NSW. ♦ SAC member for landcare to address RWN & landcare specialists when appropriate re strategies for ensuring women's continued participation & profile in landcare.

Women have played a strong role in landcare since its official launch in 1990 – through both active participation in on-ground works to care for natural resources & in the important areas of property & catchment planning. Women are recognised as the backbone of many landcare projects – bringing to landcare their considerable skills & community development experience.

The message & image about rural women’s real & considerable participation in agriculture has been very obvious through landcare.

Many landcare publications now feature rural women prominently. Land- care Awards have been granted to rural women for their achievements & commitment. Media coverage of women in landcare continues to grow.

Awareness about land & water degradation amongst rural women has increased through the involvement of the Decade of Landcare project with the RWN. A healthy sharing of ideas & forums has allowed this to happen & will continue.

Landcare gatherings have included rural women & their particular issues, including in the Australian National Field Days Landcare Guest Exhibit & the Australian Farm Management Society’s Annual Conference Can- berra 1994.

Rural women have been specifically targeted to attend & participate in various landcare field days, workshops & forums.

Most landcare gatherings now consider & arrange their meetings & workshops with the timetables, issues & commitments of rural women in mind. Merrilie Slack-Smith NSW Agriculture Minister's Representative Minister for Agriculture 1992-1995 Representative: Merrilie Slack-Smith (1992-1995) "I hope my experience in both the Health industry and business, and the fact that I (Wee Waa) am a rural mother with many of the same New representative, Dec 1995: Doreen Clough (Bathurst) problems affecting rural families, with diminishing services to the country/rural Aim: To keep the Minister informed on the activities of the RWN, & the areas, means I am well able to assist rural needs of rural women & families women"

Page 30 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 State Advisory Committee Reports Highlights & Progress Dr Sandra Cabot’s meeting in Narrabri – September 1992; along with Katreena Forsyth we organised 600 women to attend from Moree, Gunnedah & Coonabarabran regions to hear her talk on women's health & menopause.

Rural Women’s Satellite Project, Moree – I [Merrilie] was a participator in this group & we all worked very well on both days, then a smaller group was formed called Community Aid at Home & we are still active today.

The aim is to improve quality service within the Local Community, through the distribution of information & services. We have held a number of days at Doreen Clough Bingara, Croppa Creek, Bellata, Weemelah & Bullahra Hall & more than Minister's Representative 350 women & some men have attended. These are on going & through 1995-1996 "I have received an invitation from the Drought Support Worker Barbara Ball spoke at Burren Junction in October Hon. Richard Amery MP, Minister for 1995 with Fran Spora on Grief & Loss. Agriculture to represent him on the RWN State Advisory Committee. At each of these days we have asked the communities what they wish to hear, & mostly we do Communication, Farm succession, Women’s Health, Han- I come with no great qualifications, but I dling Stress, Legal advice, setting up Small Business, & also a representative hope plenty of common sense. I do come though with a genuine desire to work to- from the Department of Social Security & the Rural Counsellor if he/she is wards alleviating the hardships endured free. by many rural women in NSW." 1994 International Women in Agriculture conference in Melbourne was wonderful & to be part of it was fantastic, so many women from all over the world & with much the same problems. I spoke at two functions on this to people who were unable to go.

1994 Women of the Land Gathering Committee at Gunnedah – This was a very big commitment & I was very happy to be involved. The travelling was a problem as I am 170kms from Gunnedah, however, I only missed a couple of meetings. We had 450 women at Gunnedah on 16th-18th Septem- ber 1994 & it was a wonderful weekend.

Many National Party meetings & Conferences I have attended over the three years, & I have lost count how many Rural Shows: I have opened Quilting Shows & launched a Book & almost everywhere I go the Web, & information from RWN, comes with me to hand out & it is always well accepted especially the Web Drought package.

All through the area small groups are forming, book clubs, landcare & I feel that with the start of the RWN more focus has been put on women & they now feel it is OK to talk about their problems, rather than try to conceal them as we are all part of the big picture.

Families are so very vital to the rural industry & the rural industry is vital for Australia’s future. A lot of the problems are still there with the ongoing drought.

There will always be hardships on the land, & I feel the RWN has assisted tremendously in Government decisions to assist those families on the land with Special Circumstances, Drought Support Workers just to name a few, & hopefully will keep families on the land & through this crisis.

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 31 State Advisory Committee Reports NSW Farmer's Association Representatives: Vivienne Sinderberry (1992-1994) (Junee) Susan Mitchell (1994-1995) (Cooma) Aim: To foster understanding & communication between the RWN & NSW Farmers' Association. Highlights & Progress Our role is to act as a conduit between the Association & the SAC – I [Susan] found it a little difficult to start with as so much of what the SAC was doing Vivienne Sinderberry was based on the RWSP linkup & this had not been offered on the Monaro. NSW Farmers' Association However I had attended the International Women in Agriculture Conference Representative 1992-1994 in Melbourne as a private citizen & also the Women of the Land Gathering in "My philosophy is simple – if women are Gunnedah. to be effective decision makers within their industry, they must first understand where Reports have been presented to every NSW Farmers’ General Council their own dollars and cents come from. Knowing their own enterprises, they will meeting since I was appointed to the SAC, & also in reverse to the SAC – A begin to understand their own industry, copy of the Web has been distributed to members at the NSW Farmers' An- and then they can become effective nual Conference in Dubbo this year & also other RWN information – I even politically. " wore a T-shirt to promote the RWN for one day at the Conference!

I am also keen to have a very basic bookkeeping course in place – to assist the bottom 40% of farm families – before the end of the 1996/97 financial year. I believe that if farm families could be convinced that an understanding of "where we are now & how that compares with budget" could assist them in running their businesses & in keeping them on the land, then the prosperity of rural Australia would start on the long climb up.

Our role is also to encourage rural women to become actively involved in the NSW Farmers' Association rather than leaving it to their men. The most im- mediate issue was the perception within the Network that NSW Farmers does not encourage or use women – This is not a reality – the Association does not Susan Mitchell differentiate between men & women, it may be the perception of some women NSW Farmers' Association but if they test it they would not be able to prove it. Representative 1994-1996 The group of women that are working for & with the Rural Women’s Net- "I believe the RWN brings women work are most inspiring & dedicated to the furthering & support of women together... with an aim of increasing the general awareness of women of their within NSW. potential and contribution to agriculture in Australia. One of the most important features is that by meeting and working Rural Lands Protection Boards (RLPBs) with others on the committee, you find so many ideas that can be taken up in one's Representatives: own area." Mary-Jane Douglas (1992-1993/4) (Walgett) Maree Coughlan (1994-1996) (Morundah) Aim: To strengthen communication links, exchange information & develop the profile of women in RLPBs. Highlights & Progress ♦ As the RLPB representative I [Maree] have spoken about the RWN & RLPBs to groups including: –

Page 32 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 State Advisory Committee Reports

Landcare, CWA & Soroptomist Meetings. This has assisted in local network building & increased the profile of women in agriculture & helped identify the need for women to be encouraged to stand for election to Statutory Boards such as – RLPB, Rice Marketing & Water. ♦ The drought has afforded the opportunity to consult with local health authorities & promote RWN Drought related initiatives through the local press & RLPB monthly meetings & newsletters to ratepayers. ♦ I promoted & attended the Women of the Land Gathering at Yanco through local women’s groups (courses & meetings) ♦ I assisted Carolyn Lyons with organisation of her tour of the Riverina region with Sr St. Jude to promote the Country Care Link 008 facility Mary Jane Douglas by arranging financial assistance through donation, use of a vehicle & Rural Lands Protection Boards itinerary suggestions Representative ♦ I put forward Sue Sampson, Director Cobar RLPB, as the RLPB repre- 1992-1993 sentative for the Rural Communities Looking Ahead Conference in Dubbo, 28-30 June, 1995. A comprehensive report was made in the Sep- tember, 1995, RLPB Monthly Newsletter ♦ A successful proposal was put to the Women’s Ministry Grants Program to employ a woman to work on strategies to involve women in RLPBs. ($78,000 over 1996/97)

The role of RLPBs has broadened & developed over the past three years in response to changing rural & political situations & their representation on the RWN has assumed greater relevance over that time.

There are presently 12 women Directors of a total of 456 RLPB Directors. With support & encouragement more women will take up the challenge. We Maree Coughlan need an increasing number of articulate representatives, women & men, for Rural Lands Protection Boards Representative the survival of our rural life. 1993-1996 "RLPBs play a vital role in the agricul- RLPBs play an important role in the livestock & agricultural industries of tural and livestock industries of NSW and NSW & through their state-wide coverage they offer an opportunity to the state-wide coverage provided by them strengthen links between rural agencies & organisations for the benefit of offers an important communication link farmers, their families & communities. between farmers and their families and the RWN, and other rural organisations" I maintain links between the RWN & RLPBs by:- ♦ Distributing of RWN resources at RLPB Annual Conference, Regional Conventions & Directors’ Information Days ♦ Exchanging reports & articles between RLPB & RWN on relevant activities through The Country Web, RLPB monthly newsletters & local Board publications ♦ Liaise between RWN & RLPB State Council. Western Division Representative: Pat Le Lievre (Cobar) Aim: Improving communications & opportunities for rural women & communities in the far west of New South Wales. Highlights & Progress: Since taking up my position on the RWN SAC representing the Far West in 1993, my area has been experiencing some of the most difficult economic, social & environmental times in its history. With these circumstances in mind,

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 33 State Advisory Committee Reports programs have been undertaken to offer support & encouragement to deal with everyday needs, communications, the grief & loss of changed circumstances, & health.

♦ Networking at the Crossroads, stress management workshops, were held in seven different locations throughout Cobar & the village of Tilpa. The issue of suicide was raised – how to recognise the outward signs of suicide contemplation was especially addressed. ♦ A Better Health for Women in the 1990's day was held in Cobar that attracted 200 women with Dr Sandra Cabot providing information & op- tions to those participating. ♦ Through the Cobar Community & Rural Network Committee, a grant of Pat Le Lievre $15,000 was granted to do Placing Life Skills Within Reach of Rural Western Division Representative Women workshops around the West (Rural Access Program funding); 1992-1996 "The RWN Committee has given me the Lyn Sykes from Family Life Dubbo was the presenter. Places such as opportunity to bring an awareness to this Ivanhoe, Enngonia, Wilcannia, Wanaaring, Louth, Helman's Tank, Co- State forum, of the Western Division. The bar, Bourke & Black Range in the Mt Hope area, had day long programs saying that "there is nothing new under on better communicating. the sun" is true, how we go about ad- ♦ Through my role on the Orana/Far West Building Stronger Communi- dressing issues is the challenge" ties Committee, grief & loss workshops were held in Cobar. Conflict Resolution workshops for the community as a whole are also in place. ♦ Volunteer Week in 1994 was celebrated & an information book of all volunteer organisations in Cobar was put into the Cobar library & is now on computer. ♦ I am especially proud that my idea of the Let’s Talk Communication Video came to be & the back up it can provide to families who participated in programs such as the Road to Green Pastures, held in Cobar in 1993 & the Placing Life Skills Within Reach of Rural Women. I have an objective to see that a copy is placed in every Far Western Library & Rural Lands Protection Office. ♦ The writing of submissions are very regular occurrences, the most recent being to extend the Homestart program to Cobar & Bourke. ♦ The year of 1996 will provide the challenge of coordinating the Women of the Land Gathering in Cobar. As part of our theme, Resourceful & Resilient, we wish to recognise the role of mining families who share & strengthen many of our rural communities, & we are greatly enriched because of their presence.

As I reflect back over the last two years in the Rural Women’s Network, we in the Western Division appear to be in more of the same mode, drought & diminishing returns for commodities are still the agenda. Keeping people in touch with each other is a great challenge in the Far West, what I have provided in my report is just a small part of my endeavour to meet the challenge.

Page 34 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Future Directions for the RWN

1998

NSW Rural Women's Stakeholders Forum to be held at Orange – commitment to action on issues; working with community, government & industry.

Women as Agents of Change Ongoing Projects Challenge of Change

New Projects Rural Women's Memoirs Women & Technology Global Networking

Women in Decisionmaking Ongoing Projects Stepping Stones Women's Registers (NSW & Federal) Policy

New Projects – working in cooperation with: Dairy Women's Project Rural Lands Protection Boards' Project

Further Communication and Information Development Ongoing Projects New Projects Country Web Network data base Country Guide Internet Home Page Women of the Land Gatherings Rural Women's Days

Rural Women's The Network Rural responding Women's to issues and trends Network and recommending becomes policy for the future part of the newly established Office of Rural Communities

July 1996

Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996 Page 35 Rural Women's Network Program Structure

Office of Rural Communities

Staffing State Advisory Coordinator Committee Assistant Coordinator (Community Members Project Support Officer from key networks) Program

RWN consultations, presentations, workshops 1992-1996

Page 36 Rural Women's Network Special Report 1992-1996